DALLAS—July 19, 2011—Learning Forward yesterday released the newly revised Standards for Professional Learning, the third iteration of standards outlining the characteristics of professional learning that lead to effective teaching practices, supportive leadership, and improved student results. The standards were released at Learning Forward’s Summer Conference in Indianapolis, Ind.
The first major revision of the Standards for Staff Development since 2001, the new standards will serve as a guide for teaching practice for the nearly 13,000 members of Learning Forward, formerly known as National Staff Development Council. The existing standards have been adapted or adopted by 35 states to guide policy and practice in professional development. The standards revision initiative was made possible with support from MetLife Foundation.
“These standards call for a new form of educator learning,” said Joellen Killion, deputy executive director of Learning Forward and project director of the standards revision. “Naming this version Standards for Professional Learning signals the importance of educators taking an active role in their continuous improvement. By making learning the focus, those who are responsible for professional learning will concentrate their efforts on ensuring that learning for educators leads to learning for students.”
As with earlier versions of the standards, including the last revision in 2001, Learning Forward invited representatives from 40 leading education organizations and associations to contribute to the development of the standards. Together, these representatives reviewed the available research and literature to contribute to the standards revision on behalf of their constituencies which include teachers, principals, superintendents, and local and state school board members.
“We now call on policy-making authorities at all levels of government to adopt the standards. Increasing the effectiveness of professional learning is the leverage point with the greatest potential for strengthening and refining the day-to-day performance of educators,” said Stephanie Hirsh, executive director of Learning Forward. “Decision-makers can demonstrate their commitment to ensuring effective professional learning by taking this step and, more importantly, holding education systems accountable for meeting the standards,” said Hirsh.
Learn more about the new standards, which includes video, the seven standards statements with explanations, information about ordering a hard copy of the standards, and much more.
